New NSW Cabinet announced

Release Date: 29/01/2017

The Sydney Business Chamber looks forward to working with the new NSW Cabinet following Premier Gladys Berejiklian’s announcement of her team this morning.

“On behalf of our members that represent Sydney’s leading corporations, we encourage the new team to remain focussed on those issues that will ensure that Sydney and NSW is able to thrive as a strong and competitive economy,” said Patricia Forsythe, Executive Director of the Sydney Business Chamber.

“We congratulate those who have been named ministers for the first time and encourage them to engage with their key stakeholders as a matter of priority and acknowledge that the state is losing a number of ministers who made a substantial impact on delivering good public policy.

“For Sydney’s development it is critical the reforms to the planning system foreshadowed by former minister Rob Stokes are given priority by new minister Anthony Roberts.

“Anthony Roberts has a big task ahead of him as he takes over from Rob Stokes as Planning Minister but we are confident he will be up to the role.

“Rob Stokes made a positive impact on planning in NSW reform legislation and we wish him well with the critical education portfolio.

“Given the major infrastructure projects underway in transport other infrastructure projects, it is pleasing that the retention of Transport Minister Andrew Constance will ensure stability at a time when many projects are at a critical stage of planning or construction.

“We particularly acknowledge outgoing Roads Minister Duncan Gay for his willingness to consult stakeholders and his strong leadership of the Legislative Council which is a vital role for the government to achieve its legislative agenda. He has played a significant role in providing the state with crucial road infrastructure such as NorthConnex and WestConnex,” Mrs Forsythe said.

Sydney Business Chamber Western Sydney Director David Borger said he looked forward to working with the new ministry.

“It is important the new Premier and her team continue to recognise Western Sydney as a strong economic powerhouse in order for the state to succeed,” he said.

“We hope Stuart Ayres, as the new Minister for Western Sydney, will promote and stand up for the region by delivering key projects such as the Parramatta Powerhouse Museum, Parramatta light rail and supporting an aerotropolis around Badgerys Creek,” Mr Borger said.